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Solid State Physics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2-8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree)

Metron

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... science, physics, and engineering. Our people are leaders in their technical fields and are ... The strongest candidates will bring solid software engineering fundamentals, good technical ...

Metron

Software Engineer

Reston, VA

The strongest candidates will bring solid software engineering fundamentals, good technical ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, applied math, or related field * At ...

ENSCO, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer III

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... physics. * Proficiency in parametric solid modeling programs, e.g. SolidWorks or equivalent ... Static Structural, Steady-State Thermal, Modal, and Response Spectrum Work Location Type: On-Site ...

Siemens Healthineers

... Physicist, Oncology Nurse or similar licensed position. * Solid understanding of medical ... by federal, state or local law. EEO is the Law: Applicants and employees are protected under ...

LSU AgCenter

Laboratory Coordinator

Alexandria, VA

Louisiana State University of Alexandria is a publicly supported institution that provides ... Department of Biological Sciences and Department of Chemistry and Physics SUPERVISOR: Dean, College ...

Draper Labs

Senior Radiation Analysis Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$82K - $220K/yr

Solid understanding of radiation interactions with materials and devices. Education Requires a ... Cambridge Job Location - State: Massachusetts Job Location - Postal Code: 02139-3563 The US base ...

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Solid State Physics information

What are 5 potential jobs for physics?

Five potential jobs for physics graduates include research scientist, materials scientist, medical physicist, data analyst, and engineering consultant. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and proficiency in programming or modeling tools. Opportunities exist in academia, industry, healthcare, and government agencies.

What is a Solid State Physics job?

A Solid State Physics job involves studying the physical properties of solid materials, such as semiconductors, metals, and insulators. Professionals in this field work in research, development, and application of materials for electronics, energy storage, and quantum technologies. They may be employed in academia, industry, or government labs, using theoretical and experimental techniques to understand and manipulate material properties.

What jobs can you get in solid state physics?

Solid state physics graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, materials scientists, or device engineers in industries such as electronics, semiconductors, and nanotechnology. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of materials characterization tools, and a background in physics or engineering. Positions may be found in academia, government labs, or private sector companies focused on developing new materials and electronic devices.

What is the scope of solid state physics?

Solid state physics is a branch of physics that studies the properties and behavior of solid materials, including their electronic, magnetic, and structural characteristics. It underpins the development of semiconductors, nanomaterials, and electronic devices, making it essential for careers in research, materials science, and electronics engineering. Professionals in this field often work with tools like electron microscopes and spectroscopic techniques to analyze materials at the atomic level.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Solid State Physics?

As a solid state physicist, your daily responsibilities often include designing and conducting experiments to investigate material properties, analyzing experimental or simulation data, and preparing research findings for publication or presentation. You may work closely with engineers, materials scientists, and other physicists to develop new materials or electronic devices. Regular tasks also involve maintaining and calibrating complex laboratory equipment, writing grant proposals, and participating in research meetings. Collaboration and communication across interdisciplinary teams are key aspects of the role, and you’ll often engage with both academic and industrial partners depending on your work environment.

What is the highest paid field in physics?

In physics, careers in medical physics, aerospace engineering, and research roles in industry tend to be among the highest paid. Specialized fields such as quantum computing and condensed matter physics can also offer high salaries, especially with advanced skills and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Solid State Physics position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Solid State Physics, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and materials science, usually with an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in physics or a related field. Expertise with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and experience in simulation tools are highly valued, along with published research or relevant industry certifications. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills. These qualifications enable high-quality research, innovation, and clear collaboration within multidisciplinary scientific teams.

What are popular job titles related to Solid State Physics jobs in Virginia? For Solid State Physics jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Solid State Physics jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Solid State Physics jobs in Virginia are:
Solid State Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solid State Physics job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.
Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

NSS

Herndon, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description


Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead

Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Solid-State Laser Engineer / Technical Lead to drive the architecture, development, and delivery of advanced solid-state laser systems for airborne and space-based government aerospace programs.
This individual will serve as both a deep technical authority and a program catalyst — leading laser system design while motivating cross-functional teams to execute on aggressive technical milestones. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical and modeling expertise with demonstrated experience pushing complex hardware programs from concept through integration and qualification.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
  • Architect and lead development of advanced solid-state laser systems including:
    • Oscillators (linear and ring)
    • MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) architectures
    • OPO/OPA systems
    • Single-frequency / narrow-linewidth lasers
    • Frequency conversion stages (SHG, THG, nonlinear mixing)
  • Own cavity design, gain modeling, thermal analysis, and system energetics
  • Lead nonlinear optics development and frequency conversion optimization
  • Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms
  • Perform system-level optical modeling and tolerance analysis (Zemax)
  • Ensure performance, reliability, and environmental robustness
Program Execution & Team Leadership
  • Serve as technical lead for laser subsystem programs
  • Translate high-level requirements into executable technical plans
  • Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and milestone execution
  • Identify technical risks early and develop mitigation strategies
  • Mentor and guide junior optical engineers and physicists
  • Create a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and momentum
  • Coordinate with systems, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams
  • Support customer interactions and government technical reviews
Required Qualifications
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in solid-state laser development (2–8+ years post-graduate experience depending on degree)
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts or small engineering teams
  • Demonstrated deep expertise in at least one of the following areas:
    • Laser resonator stability and design
    • Gain media physics and thermal management
    • Nonlinear optics and frequency conversion
    • Single longitudinal mode and narrow-linewidth operation
  • Experience designing and modeling:
    • High peak power or high pulse energy systems
    • MOPA systems
    • Nonlinear frequency conversion, OPO/OPA architectures
  • Strong proficiency with optical modeling tools (e.g. Zemax)
  • Experience delivering hardware into airborne or space environments preferred
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing laser systems for LIDAR applications
  • Diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser expertise
  • Experience with environmental qualification (e.g. thermal, vibration, vacuum)
  • Radiation effects awareness for space-based systems
  • Experience working on DoD or aerospace prime contracts
  • Track record of taking laser systems from concept to flight qualification
Leadership Profile We’re Seeking
  • Naturally assumes ownership of technical outcomes
  • Drives momentum — does not wait for direction
  • Communicates clearly with engineers, management, and customers
  • Balances deep physics rigor with practical program execution
  • Mentors junior staff and raises overall team capability
  • Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs
Why This Role Matters
This role will directly shape next-generation airborne and space-based laser systems that support critical aerospace and national security missions. The right candidate will not only design exceptional laser architectures but will elevate the performance of the entire team.
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About NSS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NSS RPO was founded by Jessica Nicholson and Conor Nicholson in 2009. They saw the need for a nice services company that valued their employees by putting them first. With Jessica’s organizational skills and strategy along with Conor’s network, the company employed 25 contract recruiters in less than a year and proceeded to make the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in America, three years in a row. Since its inception, NSS RPO has hired hundreds of recruiters in over 30 states. NSS RPO is proud to include among its clients eight of the ten largest government contractors, the world's largest job board, entertainment company and one of the nation’s largest banks. NSS RPO is your trusted provider of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solutions. Founded by an experienced recruiter and solely focused on RPO, NSS RPO offers a strong network of exceptional recruiters and customizable staffing solutions. Named to Washington Business Journal’s prestigious list of Top 25 Staffing Agencies seven years in a row, NSS RPO is known for its quality, agility, and expertise. If you have a recruitment staffing need at your organization, NSS RPO can customize a solution for you, no matter how big or small.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

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